Nutritional support may involve discussing individual nutritional needs and dietary patterns with a healthcare professional.

Changes such as ongoing tiredness, changes in hair, skin or nails, or reduced general wellbeing may prompt questions about whether your diet is providing enough essential nutrients. However, these signs can have many possible causes and do not necessarily indicate a nutrient deficiency.

Understanding your nutritional needs can help you make informed decisions about your diet and wellbeing.

What Are Essential Nutrients?

Essential nutrients are substances the body needs but cannot always produce in sufficient amounts. They generally need to come from food or, in some circumstances, other sources recommended by an appropriately qualified health professional.

Examples include:

• Iron
• Vitamin B12
• Folate
• Vitamin D
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Protein
• Essential fatty acids

Nutritional requirements can vary depending on factors such as age, diet, activity levels and overall health.

Signs That May Be Worth Discussing

Some changes may be worth discussing with a GP or appropriately qualified health professional, particularly when they are persistent or unexplained.

Ongoing Tiredness

Tiredness can be related to sleep, stress, lifestyle, physical activity or many other factors. Nutritional factors may also be considered in some circumstances, but tiredness alone does not establish a nutrient deficiency.

Changes in Hair, Skin or Nails

Changes in hair, skin or nails can have many possible causes, including ageing, hormonal changes, environmental factors, genetics and nutritional factors. Persistent or concerning skin changes may warrant professional assessment of your skin health.

Changes in Muscle Function

Nutrition contributes to normal muscle function. If someone experiences weakness or other changes in physical function, dietary factors may be considered alongside other possible causes.

Following a Restricted Diet

People following vegetarian, vegan, highly restrictive or elimination diets may need to pay particular attention to whether their usual food choices provide adequate amounts of certain nutrients.

This does not mean a particular dietary pattern is unsuitable. Individual dietary intake and circumstances should be considered.

How Are Nutritional Needs Assessed?

Nutritional assessment may consider:

• Usual dietary intake
• Dietary preferences or restrictions
• Age and lifestyle
• Physical activity
• Relevant health history
• Medications
• Existing health conditions
• Symptoms or concerns
• Previous blood tests or investigations

Depending on the findings, your healthcare professional may recommend dietary changes, further assessment, pathology testing or referral. A health check may also be considered when broader health concerns need to be discussed.

What Does Nutritional Support Involve?

Nutritional support may include dietary guidance and, where appropriate, other forms of nutrient support. At Longevity Clinics, the Nutrient Support service is assessed on an individual basis before treatment is considered.

Where supplementation is being considered, the type, dose and suitability should be assessed appropriately rather than assumed to be necessary based on symptoms alone.

A food-based approach may be considered depending on the person’s circumstances.

What Is IV Nutrient Support?

An IV treatment typically involves placing a small cannula into a vein, allowing the selected fluid or nutrients to be administered intravenously. The specific ingredients, dosage and duration of treatment can vary depending on the service and individual circumstances.

Before undergoing an IV treatment, an appropriately qualified healthcare professional should assess whether the service is suitable for you and discuss what the treatment involves.

Why Individual Nutritional Needs Matter

Nutritional needs vary from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as age, lifestyle, activity levels, dietary restrictions and overall health.

Online information cannot account for everyone’s dietary needs or health history. A healthcare professional can help put your diet and symptoms into context and determine whether further assessment is appropriate.

Should You Take Supplements If You Have Symptoms?

Not necessarily.

Symptoms such as tiredness or changes in physical wellbeing can have many possible causes. Taking a supplement without understanding the underlying reason may not address the actual issue.

If symptoms persist, worsen or concern you, speak with your Our Team or another healthcare professional.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

It may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Persistent or unexplained tiredness
• Ongoing changes in physical wellbeing
• Significant dietary restrictions
• Concerns about your nutritional intake
• Persistent or worsening symptoms
• Questions about supplements or nutritional support

If symptoms are sudden or severe, seek appropriate medical attention.

A Personalised Approach to Nutritional Support

At Longevity Clinics, Nutrient Support is assessed on an individual basis by the medical team. The consultation may include discussion of your diet, nutritional needs, lifestyle and relevant health history. Where appropriate, the team can explain the available options and whether Nutrient Support is suitable for you.

FAQ

What are essential nutrients?

Essential nutrients include vitamins, minerals, protein and essential fatty acids that the body needs for normal function. The amount each person needs can vary.

Can tiredness mean I am not getting enough nutrients?

Tiredness has many possible causes. Nutritional factors may be considered, but tiredness alone cannot confirm a nutrient deficiency.

Do I need supplements if I follow a restricted diet?

Not necessarily. Your overall diet and individual nutritional needs should be considered before deciding whether supplements are appropriate.

What are IV nutrients?

IV nutrients generally refers to nutrients administered through an intravenous service. What is administered and whether the service is appropriate depends on the individual and the specific treatment being considered.

Is IV wellness the same as nutritional support?

Nutritional support may involve dietary assessment and guidance, while IV wellness involves a different approach and should be considered separately.

Important Information

This article provides general health and nutrition information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Symptoms can have many possible causes. If you have persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms, speak with your GP or an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Any nutritional recommendations or clinical services should be considered according to individual circumstances.